Within the framework of the PhD Programme in Understanding and Managing Extremes (UME), the seminar entitled “Beyond Seismic Safety: Sustainable Retrofit Design” will take place. The event is structured in two sessions and focuses on seismic strengthening and the sustainable renovation of existing buildings, adopting an integrated approach that combines professional practice and advanced research perspectives.

March 6, 2026 | 9:00–13:00

📍 Venue (in person): Sala del Camino
💻 Zoom link: https://iusspavia.zoom.us/my/br.saladelcamino

Seminar Structure

The seminar is organised into two thematic sessions.

Session 1 – Applied Case Studies and Innovative Retrofit Solutions

The first session will present interventions on strategic and historic buildings, including:

• active vibration control systems for hospitals;
• retrofit strategies for masonry structures and Lisbon’s historic centre;
• life-cycle-oriented design approaches, including structural exoskeletons for upgrading post-World War II buildings.

Session 2 – Emerging Research Topics

The second session will address:

• integration of embodied carbon into design decision-making;
• regional prioritisation frameworks for seismic retrofit;
• multi-objective façade design addressing both seismic and heat risks;
• life-cycle performance assessment of reinforced-concrete bridges under deterioration and climate change;
• future global building exposure scenarios.

Overall, the seminar aims to highlight the strategic role of rehabilitating existing buildings and infrastructure in enhancing seismic resilience, promoting environmental sustainability, and supporting effective long-term risk management.